Festivities, food … and one big curly ‘W’ for Nationals in home opener

The American flag is unfurled in the outfield at Nationals Park before Washington hosted Cincinnati on Thursday in its home opener. The Nationals beat the Reds 3-2 in 10 innings. (Rod Lamkey Jr./The Washington Times) more >

A reporter from WUSA-TV (Channel 9) waited to eat one for a story and wondered if she could make it through a pound.

Near the center field gate, two vendors chased opening-day pennants knocked from their stands by the wind. Every 30 or so seconds, they let out half-hearted cries of “programs.” They had no business.

The wind continued as the sun fell and the fans, some wearing Mets, White Sox and Red Sox caps, rose. In the 10th inning, Ryan Zimmerman streaked home after a wild pitch and the game was over. Streaks of blue empty seats disappeared as fans jumped up and down and waved arms.